We are all familiar with the world of TESOL, even if our specific contexts, experiences, and perspectives are slightly different. There is a lot we share.

Even if we do not teach business English or ESP, many of our learners will end up using the English we teach them in a workplace context. It could be argued that it is part of our job to make sure that they have the necessary skills and competence. Despite this, for many in our profession, the world of work is a context that remains unfamiliar, even uncomfortable. In my talk I would like to explore this gap between TESOL and the world of work, and suggest possible ways of filling it, or at least bridging it.

The talk will be in two parts. First, we look at what we mean by English in the world of work. Often multilingual, certainly intercultural, inevitably context-specific, and inextricably linked to professional know-how, it offers challenges which learners may not meet in a traditional language learning context.  What is effective use of English in the international workplace? Is asking someone to pass a test designed to meet "native speaker" norms the best way to judge competence? Is it even ethical? How useful are our coursebooks, our classrooms, and our research in dealing with these issues? How many of us have the skills to observe and analyse communication in a specific workplace context, and then advise learners on how best to avoid miscommunication in such contexts?

These questions will lead us to the second part of the talk where I will suggest how we might be able to fill the gap. Some are already happening, such as use of generative AI, informal learning and microlearning, but may not yet be universally accepted or exploited by the TESOL community. Others, such as learning on-the-job, peer coaching and curation of workplace learning assets, may be less familiar. Not all of these will be useful in every context, but perhaps we need to at least be aware of them if we are to remain relevant to our learners’ needs.